What is a mental diversion?
What is a mental diversion?
Mental Health Diversion in California (Penal Code 1001.36 PC) This program allows some people with mental health issues to receive treatment in lieu of prosecution and jail when they are charged with a crime. If the defendant successfully completes treatment, the criminal charges will be dismissed.
What is a diversion program in Ontario?
Diversion programs provide an alternative to prosecution. These programs are offered in courthouses throughout Ontario. Generally, diversion involves an accused person doing something outside of court in order to have a charge (or charges) stayed or withdrawn by the Crown.
What is mental health court Ontario?
The goal of the court is to expedite case processing, create effective interactions between the mental health and criminal justice system, increase access to mental health services, reduce recidivism, improve public safety and reduce the length of confinement in jails for mentally disordered offenders.
What is a diversion sentence?
A diversion program, also known as a pretrial diversion program or pretrial intervention program, in the criminal justice system is a form of pretrial sentencing in which a criminal offender joins a rehabilitation program to help remedy the behavior leading to the original arrest, allow the offender to avoid conviction …
What is a mental health deferment?
Under penal code 1001.36, California now offers “Mental Health Diversion” programs that allow some criminal defendants to get mental health treatment when they are accused of a crime in the form of “pretrial diversion.” Pretrial diversion allows a willing defendant to postpone further action in their case in order to …
How many mental health courts are in Ontario?
19 mental health courts
There are 19 mental health courts in the province, staffed by a specially trained Crown and judge.
Why are mental health courts important?
People with mental illness are overrepresented in the U.S. criminal justice system. Mental health courts allow for diversion into community-based treatment, potentially reducing the high rates of repeat involvement with the criminal justice system.
Who is most likely to be referred to mental health court and for which offenses?
In general, mental health courts are increasingly likely to accept individuals charged with more serious offenses including felonies and, in some jurisdictions, violent crimes. Most mental health court participants have serious mental illnesses, and many also have co-occurring substance use disorders.
How do problem solving courts work?
The Problem-Solving Court Model An interdisciplinary team, led by a judge (or parole authority), works collaboratively to achieve two goals: Case management to expedite case processing and reduce caseload and time to disposition, thus increasing trial capacity for more serious crimes.
Does mental health play a role in court?
[ix] Mental health courts play an important role in convening criminal justice, mental health, substance abuse and other relevant social service agencies to facilitate diversion from the criminal justice system.